What are the four core documents every estate plan should include?

Most adults need four foundational documents, regardless of net worth. First, a will directs who inherits your property and, critically, names a guardian for minor children. Second, a revocable living trust can hold assets to avoid probate and manage them if you become incapacitated. Third, a durable financial power of attorney lets someone pay your bills and manage money if you can't. Fourth, an advance healthcare directive (combining a healthcare proxy and living will) states your medical wishes and names a decision-maker. Not everyone needs a trust, but everyone over 18 should have the other three. The American Bar Association notes these documents work as a set, not in isolation. Take the WealthSerene Estate Readiness assessment at wealthserene.com/assessments/estate-readiness to see which you're missing.